Our comprehensive guide to the very best of North Beach.
Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf
WHERE TO EAT
Tosca Cafe
Luscious red booths line the walls, dimly lit lanterns hang overhead, and a lively bar sets the scene for decadent Italian cuisine. Relish in the braised short rib rigatoni, truffle gnocchi and housemade focaccia, alongside a list of colorful cocktails to match. 242 Columbus Ave., 415.986.9651, toscacafesf.com
Portofino
We love Portofino, a quaint Italian spot that has been serving up sumptuous seafood since 1937. The menu is brimming with fresh fish delicacies like clam chowder, oysters and fresh lobster rolls. 1318 Grant Ave., 415.400.5776
Tony’s Pizza Napoletana
Nestled in the heart of North Beach, Tony’s unwavering passion for authentic Italian cuisine shows in every slice of sizzling pizza cooked to perfection in rustic coal-brick ovens. With authentic ingredients sourced from Napoli, guests are transported to the old country in each mouthwatering bite. 1570 Stockton St., 415.835.9888, tonyspizzanapoletana.com
Lyon & Swan
The subterranean Lyon & Swan (a wine cellar lair) boasts a stage with great jazz combos and a menu with artistic flair. Standouts include the lamb osso buco, roasted prime strip loin, Spanish octopus and the duck leg confit. 124 Columbus Ave., 415.429.5200, lyonandswan.com
Comstock Saloon
Vintage wallpaper, cozy booths and an upscale bar add to this saloon’s classic old-school charm. Guests can expect delectable menu items (the caviar bites are a must) and expertly crafted cocktails by Marco Dionysos. The bar hosts jazz nights every week. 155 Columbus Ave., 415.617.0071, comstocksaloon.com
Molinari Delicatessen
Molinari’s has served American Italian delicacies since 1896, keeping the vibrant culture alive with its artisan meats, aromatic cheeses, savory bread and gourmet sandwiches. Cruise the streets of North Beach and swing by for classics such as the eggplant parmigiana, hot and cold sandwiches and more. 373 Columbus Ave., 415.421.2337, molindaridelisf.com
Tempting sesame seed mortadella burrata at Tony’s Pizza
WHERE TO STAYCATION
Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf
This luxurious retreat in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf boasts picturesque views, luxury accommodations and lively Italian restaurants nearby. Expect spacious living rooms, a crackling fireplace and sweeping views of the city’s skyline. More perks include complimentary one-hour electric bike rentals, the perfect way to see the town in style. 415 N. Point St., 415.561.1100, hotelzoesf.com
Hotel Zephyr
Relax with waterfront luxe views in one of the premium guest rooms, then check out The Yard, an 8,000-square-foot play area featuring oversize games, four cozy fire pits and SF’s largest periscope for picturesque views of the Bay. 250 Beach St., 415.617.6565, hotelzephyrsf.com
Hotel Boheme
Built by Italian immigrants in the 1880s, this hotel’s historic roots are steeped in the walls of the gorgeous boutique building. Black-and-white stills of North Beach shot by Jerry Stoll in the ’50s and ’60s grace the walls, while the 15 intimate guest rooms offer the best amenities. 444 Columbus Ave., 415.433.9111, hotelboheme.com
Argonaut Hotel
What was once the personal home of the Argonaut family is now a sexy boutique hotel in Fisherman’s Wharf. Our room of choice? The one-bedroom suite has a relaxing jacuzzi overlooking the water and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. 495 Jefferson St., 415.563.0800, argonauthotel.com
Cozy environs at Lyon & Swan
WHERE TO SHOP
City Lights Booksellers & Publishers
Lights strung overhead, the scent of fresh books lingers in the air, and shoppers browse the aisles in search of their next read. Browse an impressive selection of poetry, fiction, politics, philosophy and more—now with hardbacks among the mix. 261 Columbus Ave., 415.362.8193, citylights.com
Biordi Art Imports
Known for decor steeped in Italian artistry, Biordi opened a storefront in North Beach in 1946 and has been a favorite stop for tourists and locals ever since. Find an array of intricate pottery, art, gifts and artisan tableware to make a statement at every soiree. 412 Columbus Ave., 415.392.8096, biordi.com
Goorin Bros. Hat Shop
A wide selection of unconventional hats line the walls here, often featuring intricate patterns, colorful fabrics and unique embellishments that ensure every piece is a statement-maker. From sophisticated fedoras to trucker hats and flat caps of the finest quality, shoppers will surely find the perfect topper for their wardrobe. 1612 Stockton St., 415.402.0454, goorin.com
A sumptuous suite at the Argonaut Hotel
AB Fits
AB Fits curates denim-centric designs and stylish men’s and women’s wear, offering unique brands rarely found elsewhere in the city. Pick from names like Levi’s Vintage Clothing, Merz b. Scwanen, indie+ash and more. 1519 Grant Ave., 415.982.5726, abfits.com
Little Vine
This quaint specialty shop is known for selling artisan wine, aromatic cheese, groceries and delicious sandwiches made fresh daily. Swing by every Thursday for wine-tasting nights to meet local winemakers and indulge in the finest sips. 1541 Grant Ave., 415.738.2221, littlevine.mypreview.site
P.F. Candle Co.
This L.A.-based home fragrance company began as a one-woman Etsy shop in 2008 and has since expanded to several in-person stores across the state, including San Francisco. Curating delightful scents perfect for every home, browse an endless array of candles, incense, sprays, body care and more. 1422 Grant Ave., 415.872.6194, pfcandleco.com
Jeffrey’s Natural Pet Foods
Jeffrey’s is a charming pet supply store specializing in nutritious dog food crafted from fresh, raw, organic meats free from hormones and antibiotics to keep beloved four-legged friends in tip-top shape. Other offerings include puppy socials and dog training. 284 Noe St., 415.402.0342, jeffreyspets.com
Rest and relax at one of North Beach’s many well-appointed spas.
WHERE TO RELAX
The Hive
Fitness journeys are a breeze at The Hive, offering a variety of aerial, yoga and other inspiring classes. Unlock your inner Zen and experience the thrill of swinging on a trapeze with an intro class or a workshop with aerial artist Angela Chu. 1503 Grant Ave., 415.500.3367, thehive-sf.com
Reboot Float & Cryo Spa
This wellness spa offers an upscale relaxation experience with high-tech wellness solutions. Discover body services like float therapy, cryotherapy, saunas and more. Whether it’s a spa day with friends or a self-care visit for one, watch as all worries float away. 1912 Lombard St., 415.494.9032, rebootfloatspa.com
Shop a wide variety of artisan cheeses at Little Vine.
Aura Skin Spa
Aura Skin Spa is a medical spa steeped in luxurious amenities, focusing on state-of-the-art cosmetic treatments that address any skincare need. Pick from choice services like laser hair removal, body contouring, skin tightening, laser-assisted liposuction and more. 118 Columbus Ave., 415.788.3800, auraskinspa.com
Glow Yoga & Wellness
Holistic yoga classes and luxe spa amenities are available at Glow, boasting a unique wellness experience. Enjoy services like red light therapy, facials, meditative sound baths and more. 1548 Stockton St., 415.874.9141, glowyogasf.com
Photography by: COURTESY OF BRAND; BY MARK FIORITO; COURTESY OF BRAND; COURTESY OF BRAND; BY ADRIAN MOTROC DHLAR; BY JAY ESOPENKO